Scheduling Your First Visit to Omaha Correctional Center: timeline, approval and what to expect

Before you try to schedule anything, make sure every person who wants to attend is already on the incarcerated person's approved visiting list. NDCS requires this for all visitors, adults and minors alike, so kids need approval too. If someone isn't on the list yet, the visit can't be scheduled until that approval goes through.

Build in lead time. NDCS requires visitation requests at least seven days before your target date. If you're aiming for a specific weekend or coordinating travel, count backwards from that date so you don't miss the minimum notice window.

You also can't book indefinitely far out. Visits may be scheduled up to four weeks from the date you make the request, so your options fall within that four-week window. If you're working around job schedules, childcare, or a long drive, pick a few possible dates that fit inside that range.

Slots are assigned first-come, first-served. After you submit your request, watch for the facility's email confirmation. NDCS says you should receive it at least three days before your visit. Your first choice may already be full, so include alternate dates and times. That way staff can try to fit you into your second or third preference.

• ✓ Submit your visitation request at least 7 days before the date you want (earlier is better for first-come, first-served scheduling).
• ✓ Choose dates within the 4-week scheduling window from the day you request.
• ✓ Look for an email confirmation at least 3 days before your visit, and include backup date/time options in case your first choice is full.

Figure out your group size before you submit the request. NDCS allows up to four adult visitors at each in-person or virtual visit, plus a "reasonable number" of children. The adult cap is straightforward. The number of children can depend on the facility, though, so keep your list realistic if you're planning to bring kids.

On visit day, bring proper identification and only permissible personal items. NDCS points visitors to the facility's visiting policy for the exact rules on acceptable ID, what you can bring in, and what clothing is allowed (these details can vary by facility). Check that policy ahead of time so you don't run into problems at the entrance.

If this is your first visit, treat the facility's visiting policy as your packing list and dress-code guide. It covers which forms of ID are accepted, which personal items are permitted, and how attire rules are enforced at that specific location.

1. Confirm everyone is approved - Every adult and minor who will attend must already be on the incarcerated person’s approved visiting list.
2. Pick a date and submit your request 7+ days ahead - Requests must be submitted at least seven days before the visit date.
3. Stay within the 4-week booking window - You can schedule up to four weeks from the date you request, so select options that fit inside that timeframe.
4. Plan for first-come, first-served scheduling - Submit early and include alternate dates and times, since your first choice may be full.
5. Watch for the confirmation email - You should receive email confirmation at least three days before your visit.
6. Prepare for entry requirements - Bring proper identification, bring only permissible items based on the facility policy, and expect that you may be searched.

• ✓ Save or print your email confirmation (it should arrive at least 3 days before the visit).
• ✓ Bring proper identification.
• ✓ Bring only permissible personal items, based on the facility’s visiting policy.
• ✓ Keep your visitor count within limits (up to four adults, plus an allowed number of children).
• ✓ Be ready for search procedures at any point while visiting.